As an American living in France, one of the most nostalgic holidays is undoubtedly Thanksgiving. While the French don’t traditionally celebrate it, you can still enjoy a warm and festive Thanksgiving experience that combines American traditions with the charm of your adopted country. From gathering with friends and family to creating a delicious feast, here’s how to celebrate Thanksgiving in France as an expat.

1. Host a Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner

The centerpiece of Thanksgiving is the meal, and as an expat in France, you can create an unforgettable feast by blending American favorites with local French ingredients.

• The Turkey: While turkey is not as common in French supermarkets (apart from sliced as cold-cuts), you can find it in larger stores like Carrefour, Leclerc, and Auchan, in specialized butcher shops, or venture into Costco Paris. Order your turkey in advance to ensure availability. If you're in a region where turkeys are less common, you may need to order from an American food store like American Market or Comptoir Américain.
• Side Dishes: French cuisine is full of rich, flavorful ingredients that work perfectly for a Thanksgiving spread. Serve mashed potatoes, stuffing, roasted vegetables, and cranberry sauce, just like at home. For a French twist, add gratin dauphinois (creamy potatoes), roasted chestnuts, or a selection of local cheeses.
• Pumpkin Pie: Pumpkin is a fall favorite in the U.S., but it can be harder to find canned pumpkin in France. If you can’t find it, look for fresh pumpkin or butternut squash, which you can roast and blend to create your own puree. Many grocery stores in France, such as Monoprix, also carry pumpkin pie ingredients around Thanksgiving time.

2. Find a Gathering Place

Thanksgiving is all about being with loved ones, so consider inviting friends, family, or fellow expats to join your celebration. Whether you're living in Paris, Lyon, Nice, or a smaller town, there are plenty of ways to create a community celebration.

• Invite Other Expats: Many cities in France have large expat communities, and Thanksgiving can be an excellent time to connect with other Americans or international friends. Reach out to local expat Facebook groups, forums, or meet-up events to see if there are any organized Thanksgiving dinners.
• Celebrate with French Friends: Introduce your French friends to the holiday by inviting them to join your dinner. They’ll love the opportunity to taste some American dishes, and it’s a wonderful way to share an American tradition with your adopted home.
• Restaurants Offering Thanksgiving Meals: If cooking isn’t your thing, some American-owned restaurants in France, particularly in Paris, offer Thanksgiving dinners. Places like Joe Allen, The Frog & Rosbif, and Breakfast in America often host Thanksgiving events with a traditional American menu. It’s a great way to enjoy the holiday without the stress of cooking.

3. Decorate Your Space

No Thanksgiving celebration is complete without the right atmosphere. French homes might not be decorated with the usual American autumnal flair, but you can easily transform your space with a few key items.

• Autumn Leaves and Pumpkins: Get creative by bringing some seasonal decorations into your home. You can use French markets or grocery stores to find decorative gourds, candles, and even fall foliage like leaves and pinecones.
• Table Settings: French dining is all about style, so take time to set a beautiful table. Use linen tablecloths, elegant glasses, and perhaps a few touches of gold or copper to give your Thanksgiving feast a sophisticated look.
• American Touches: If you have a supply of American decorations, like small flags or themed napkins, now’s the time to use them! You could even put out a turkey-shaped centerpiece or a few handmade crafts to add to the charm.

4. Give Thanks with a French Twist

While Thanksgiving is a time to focus on gratitude, you can put a French spin on this tradition! After your meal, gather around with your guests and share what you’re thankful for. In France, the tradition of taking time to appreciate life isn't confined to one specific day—however, this is a perfect moment to express your thanks in a relaxed, French-style meal.

• French Toast to Gratitude: When raising your glass, instead of a simple “Cheers!” try the French toast of “Santé!” or “À votre santé!” which means “To your health.” You could also share a heartfelt “Je suis reconnaissant(e)” (I am grateful) in French to connect with your French friends in a meaningful way.

5. Enjoy a Thanksgiving Walk or Activity

After the large meal, it’s common to take a walk to help digest and enjoy the crisp autumn air. This is especially delightful in many French cities where parks, gardens, and charming streets offer a picturesque backdrop.

• Paris: Walk along the Seine River, visit the Luxembourg Gardens, or explore the charming Montmartre district.
• Provence: Take a scenic hike through the lavender fields (if still in bloom) or head out to the rolling vineyards.
• Alps: For those in the French Alps, a leisurely walk in the snowy mountains after your meal will feel both invigorating and peaceful.

6. Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – Virtually

Even if you’re far from home, you can still get your fix of the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York. Many streaming services or websites offer live broadcasts, so you can enjoy the parade, the floats, and the performances with a hot drink in hand. You could even invite your guests to join in the fun.

• Paris: Walk along the Seine River, visit the Luxembourg Gardens, or explore the charming Montmartre district.
• Provence: Take a scenic hike through the lavender fields (if still in bloom) or head out to the rolling vineyards.
• Alps: For those in the French Alps, a leisurely walk in the snowy mountains after your meal will feel both invigorating and peaceful.

7. Volunteer or Donate to Local Charities

Thanksgiving is also a time to give back. If you’re feeling particularly generous, consider spending the day volunteering or donating to a charity. Many organizations in France are open to receiving donations, whether in the form of food, clothing, or financial support. Giving to a cause is a meaningful way to honor the true spirit of Thanksgiving.

8. Get Out of Town! Take a Thanksgiving Weekend Trip in France

If you miss a long weekend for Thanksgiving, why not take the opportunity to travel within France? Many regions are known for their stunning autumn landscapes. Consider exploring Normandy, where you can visit picturesque towns and enjoy some local cider or wine. Or, head to Bordeaux for wine-tasting tours in the fall vineyards.

9. Watch American Football with Friends

American football is another iconic Thanksgiving tradition, and while the French aren’t typically fans, you can still enjoy watching the big games with fellow expats. Many bars and pubs in Paris, such as The Long Hop and The Moose, offer American football broadcasts, especially for major events like the NFL games played on Thanksgiving Day.

10. Take a Moment to Reflect on What You’ve Learned

Thanksgiving can also be a time of reflection. As an expat living in France, you’ve likely experienced a new culture, a new language, and countless new perspectives. Take a moment to appreciate the richness of both your American roots and the experiences you’ve had in your new home. Share stories with others about your adventures, and take time to embrace the unique opportunity that life in France offers.

Celebrating Thanksgiving in France as an expat offers an opportunity to blend your American traditions with the charm of your new home. Whether you’re cooking a feast, exploring French cities, or sharing the holiday with new friends, Thanksgiving in France can still be a warm, joyous occasion. By embracing both the American and French aspects of the holiday, you can create a memorable experience that honors both cultures, making it a truly special occasion.